Indian batsman and keeper KL Rahul has become one of the most important cogs in India’s limited-overs setup. Especially after taking up wicketkeeping as well, something he did well in the last series against New Zealand and Australia.
However, the tour of Australia sees him getting back into the Test team as well and question marks have come up as to where he will bat for India in different formats. He is also the vice-captain of India’s white-ball team on the tour in absence of Rohit Sharma and might get to play in the Tests as well if Rohit doesn’t get fit by then.
"My batting position will depend on the format I am playing and what the team wants from me and what combination sits better, the last ODI series we played, I batted at number five and I kept the wickets so yeah, it is a role that I enjoyed and I am happy to play whatever role the team gives me," said Rahul in a virtual press-conference on Thursday.
"Look I haven't played a lot of 50-over cricket for a continued period of time, though I have been a part of the Indian team for a few years now, I have not gotten a continued run in the 50-over format like this, it feels good that I am contributing for the team," he added.
He will be entering into the limited-overs series with 670 runs in IPL 2020 behind him for Kings XI Punjab, which earned him his first Orange Cap as well.
"I mean I did get a little bit of feeler with the IPL, I had to play similar roles there as well, it was challenging and it was new, but I got used to that role and I started enjoying it. Hopefully, I will continue the same here, Virat will always be there for the boys and that will make my job a little easier. It is a very proud moment, and hopefully, I can keep on putting similar performances," said Rahul.
"Look, I learnt to stay in the moment in the IPL, when I am wicket-keeping for those last 3-4 seconds when the bowler is running in, I learnt to switch on and not focus on the leadership part. It will be important for me going forward, it is important to start well in the white-ball leg, Australia is a country where we have enjoyed competing," added the 28-year-old.
Rahul will be an important part of the four-match Test series as well, especially after Virat Kohli’s return back home after the first Test in Adelaide.
(ANI inputs)
